1 Corinthians 1:10

Beseech. Gr. parakaleo, literally, “to call to the side of,” hence, “to admonish,” “to exhort,” “to comfort” (see on John 14:16). Here the former meanings “to admonish,” “to exhort” apply. This verse marks the transition from thanksgiving and commendation to rebuke. After a brief introduction Paul launches directly into a discussion of the various problems that require his attention. See on Matt. 5:4. Brethren. A common form of address in Paul’s epistles. Here the endearing term is probably used designedly to soften the severity of the rebuke Paul is about to deliver. The term also implies unity, a quality lacking among the Corinthian believers. By the name. Literally, “through the name.” Jesus is the medium of the appeal (cf. Rom. 12:1; 1 Thess. 4:2). The appeal to one name may be a further implied rebuke (see above under “brethren”) of the party spirit existing among the Corinthian believers. Speak the same thing. This phrase translates an idiom found in classical Greek meaning “to be agreed.” Its use here has been pointed out as illustrating Paul’s acquaintance with classical Greek writings (see on Acts 17:28). Divisions. Gr. schismata, from the word schizo, “to rend,” “to split.” In Matt. 27:51 schizo describes the rending of the veil of the Temple. Schisma is used in Matt. 9:16 of a rent in a garment. Paul uses the word in a moral sense for “dissension,” “division,” with special reference to the party spirit in Corinth. Our English word “schism” is derived from schisma. Be perfectly joined together. Gr. katartizo, “to mend [as a torn fishing net]” (Matt. 4:21); ethically, “to perfect,” “to complete.” This earnest plea for unity in the church strikes a note that is heard repeatedly in the preaching of Jesus and the apostles (see John 17:21-23; Rom. 12:16; 15:5, 6; 2 Cor. 13:11; Phil. 2:2; 1 Peter 3:8). Mind ...judgment. Gr. nous ... gnome. These words may be distinguished as follows: Nous denotes the state or frame of mind, gnome the opinion, judgment, or sentiment, that results from a certain frame of mind.